Theatre performances differ greatly from film, having their origins in ancient religious ceremonies opposed to the latter’s early 20th century beginnings. As the foundation of all drama, theatre in Greece set the categories for tragedy and comedy, categories which are still used after 2,500 years.

Its historical importance also established in the Western world the theatre architecture, acting and the dramatic structure.

Theatre Better Than Cinema?

It’s Immediate

Films can spend years in production but theatre can be created extremely quickly and provide thematic immediacy. This can be critical for both political and protest art; theatre has the ability to provide a quick response to current events.

Similarly, with live performances unfold in front of your eyes without any editing for perfection. Something could wrong, and this probability transforms theatre into an exciting event. When everything goes right in spite of what could have gone wrong, it just makes a good show even better.

(C) The RSC

It Reminds Us That We’re Not Alone

Theatre is alive and three dimensional, with audiences sharing an experience and space with the actors performing and their fellow audience members. Films and television don’t provide the exact sense of participation and intimacy that live performances have. This valuable sharing of experiences with live actors and audiences is a valuable and necessary component for human connection.

It Has Powerful Storytelling

Stories are told by living, breathing people, which cultivates empathy within audiences. Theatre connects to how humans learn to connect to each other; storytelling is one of the oldest human impulses. And live performances provide an outlet for the most powerful manifestation of this impulse.

We have a need to tell our stories and to hear others’ stories, something that theatre allows in a flexible and democratic way.

It Continuously Sets a Different Stage

Live performances may have the same script for every play’s performance but no performance is exactly identical to the next one. The audience will be different and the energy in the room will affect how actors perform.

Everyone has a distinct and unique experience when watching a play – something which can never be replicated. It’s exciting and exhilarating every time, something to not be missed! Children and adults alike can share in the wonder of a live play and feel the emotions behind every performance.

Get in touch with our Box Office by giving us a call on 01253 290190 and book your tickets for an amazing live performance! You can also join the 1894 Club for discounts on your tickets and to help support The Grand.

Blackpool Grand Theatre

Take a look at what’s on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this Autumn / Winter 20/21

Blackpool Grand set out a COVID-Community Communication Programme (CCCP) during the Coronavirus pandemic. Our aims were simple, to CONNECT, COMFORT and UPLIFT. We would Connect people by offering tutorials on communication tools like Zoom and conduct community face-to-face meetings (book readings, youth groups and more). Comfort through stories of heritage, memories and storytelling, and to Uplift visitors spirits through laughter and exercise. Please do enjoy and if you can afford to donate please do.

The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it’s possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice around COVID-19, visit the World Health Organisation. If you’re in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.